Dawn Redwoods are fast and tall growing trees and not suitable for smaller gardens. They are much more suited for larger gardens and parks. Fortunately, there are other cultivars of Metasequoia glyptostroboides that grow much smaller which are more suited for the smaller garden. Although they thrive in moist sites in their native habitat, they are also able to tolerate much dryer soils.

Dawn Redwoods are also commonly used in Bonsai or Penjing planting. Due to their fast growth, Dawn Redwoods are often grown in smaller containment areas to limit their growth. With proper care, Dawn Redwood (and their cultivars) can also be grown in a nice ornamental pot and enjoyed in a smaller garden.